Bill Atencio

On September 17, 2024 Bill Atencio passed away peacefully. He was born in Villanueva, NM and enjoyed many treasured and memorable times with his grandparents during his pre-school years and on his frequent visits. 

 He was preceded in death by his parents, Grace and Andrew Atencio, sisters Rosemarie Rodriguez and Patsy Cizan. Bill is survived by his beloved wife, Lupe, his daughters, Monique Kelso (Donald), Retta Regan (Mark), their mother, (Margaret Atencio), and grandchildren Evan, Elise, and Kyle. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

Bill proudly served in the U.S. Air Force and retired from the City of Albuquerque. He worked in several departments throughout his career. (Highest position as Superintendent). He was loved and highly respected by his employees who remained lifelong friends. Bill was loved by many friends and family members who will greatly miss him.

He became a decades long-revered official of high school and college softball, baseball, football and basketball. He received the NM High School State Championship Official award in 1983 from the Basketball NM Activities Association. He was also inducted into the Albuquerque Softball, Baseball Hall of Fame on September 14, 2005. He was honored with this award for his outstanding and valuable contributions to softball.

At a very young age he spent time with his grandpa who shared his knowledge and experience with horses. His love for horses led to great success as a race horse trainer/owner. He was an excellent trainer and won several races with Arthur’s Dream who broke and has maintained the fastest 1,000 yards track record. Arthur’s Dream won a prestigious race, Mt. Cristo Rey Handicap at Sunland Park Race Track in March 22, 2023. The purse was $79,450. 

Bill loved life, enjoyed taking vacations every year: traveled to almost all 50 states, several times to Las Vegas, NV. He lived a very happy life with his wife, family and friends. Friends and family loved to visit Bill at his ranch on South 14th. Many special memories shared.

Pallbearers will be: Kyle Crespin, Evan Kelso, Curtis Atencio, Donald Atencio, Gabriel Grado, Gilbert Grado, Leroy Lucero, and Pam Cizan.

A Rosary and Celebration of Bill's life will be held at FRENCH-Lomas on September 29, 2024. Visitation will be at 4:00 p.m. and Rosary will begin at 5:00 p.m. Reception will immediately follow the service. A mass will be held at Our Lady of Annunciation Catholic Church at 2621 Vermont St., NE, Albuquerque, NM on September 30, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. He will be laid to rest at Santa Fe National Cemetery, 501 North Guadalupe Street, Santa Fe, NM at 2:00 p.m.

 For those unable to attend the services will be streamed below.